THE grounds of Gisborough Priory will be open seven days a week all summer.

It is hoped the move will improve visitor numbers to Guisborough.

Figures show the number of people visiting the Tourist Information Centre in the Priory, fell from 16,000 in 1994 to 6,500 last year.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has blamed the downturn on the location of the Priory, and is considering moving the tourist centre to the middle of town.

Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick said: "We are delighted to be in a position to make the grounds accessible on a regular basis. There have been concerns raised that the grounds and the tourism centre were not open on occasions, but we are addressing those issues."

* A programme of events has been drawn up at the Priory, including a performance of the Merchant of Venice on Thursday, July 24, and Friday, July 25, both from 7.30pm.

The play Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves will be performed on August 13, at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets for both shows are £8 and £4.50.